Walt Disney (DIS) appears to be closing in on a major leadership decision, with Josh D’Amaro, the head of Disney’s theme park and experiences division, emerging as a key contender, Bloomberg reported. The news comes as CEO Bob Iger reportedly said that he plans to step down before his contract expires on December 31, 2026.
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According to people familiar with the discussions, the board is expected to vote on a new CEO as early as next week, marking the end of a three-year succession process.
Here’s Why D’Amaro Is the Top Candidate
D’Amaro has run Disney’s parks, experiences, and products division, the company’s most profitable unit, since 2020. He has overseen major investments in new resorts, cruise ships, and immersive attractions, including a $60 billion expansion plan and a $1.5 billion investment in Epic Games. His operational background spans leadership roles at Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and international parks.
Importantly, Disney’s CEO change has been closely watched across corporate America. Iger, who ran the company from 2005 to 2020, returned in 2022 after the board removed his successor, Bob Chapek.
Since then, investors have been pushing for clarity on who will lead the company long‑term as Disney deals with streaming struggles, major park investments, and a rapidly changing entertainment industry.
Disney to Report Fiscal Q1 Earnings Today
Disney is expected to report fiscal first-quarter earnings before the market opens today, and the CEO vote could follow shortly after.
Currently, analysts expect DIS to post revenue of over $25 billion in Q1, up 5% from the year-ago quarter. Further, the company is expected to report earnings of $1.57 per share, compared with earnings of $1.76 in the prior-year quarter.
Is Disney a Buy, Hold, or Sell?
Turning to Wall Street, DIS stock has a Strong Buy consensus rating based on 16 Buys and three Holds assigned in the last three months. At $137.00, the average Disney stock price target implies a 21.45% upside potential.
